Early Treatment

Sometimes orthodontic treatment is necessary before all of the permanent teeth are available. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an evaluation for every child at age 7. This is to evaluate growth of the face, jaws and teeth and screen for any major problems.

We generally provide treatment options to younger children for:

• Crossbites: in the front and in the back

• Habits

• Severe crowding/bite problems

• Missing teeth

• Extra teeth

• Developmental problems

• Narrow jaws

• Aesthetic concerns

Generally the treatment time is around 1 year. The major problems can often be corrected in this time period. Phase I treatment is not comprehensive treatment, and a follow up phase or Phase II is required to make all of the teeth straight.

Hygiene

Brushing teeth is vital to good orthodontic results. When the teeth are brushed well, the teeth are easier to see, the gums remain healthy and firm and pink and small, the teeth move better, there is less pain involved, the teeth remain health and there are no marks left from the braces. We take hygiene seriously in our office. If there are hygiene concerns we will let the patient and parents know so they can address and improve the issues. With continued hygiene problems, there is a chance to permanently mark the teeth and leave white scars. Because of this concern, it is vital to brush at least 2 times a day and floss daily. We will remove the braces or wires if there is poor hygiene for a long period.

Common Problems

Children often go with traditional or clear braces, because they enjoy the colors and feel natural wearing them, as many of their peers are doing the same. The traditional braces are cost effective, tried and true, very effective and do not rely as much on compliance. This means that they are put on the teeth and are not removable, cannot be lost or forgotten, etc. If you feel your child may forget or lose invisalign trays, then traditional braces are the answer! Hygiene is more difficult, so make sure to help your child remember to brush effectively. With proper hygiene there are no concerns with treating crooked teeth with the braces.